Joe Lichtenberger is a seasoned finance executive with over 30 years of experience in corporate finance, project finance, venture capital, private equity, and strategic acquisitions. As the Managing Principal of Crescive Capital, he leverages his extensive background to drive innovative financial solutions, early-stage investments, and capital-raising strategies for corporate clients. His career reflects a strong track record of value creation, leadership, and innovation across industries and international markets in Europe, Asia and South America.
At Crescive Capital, Lichtenberger leads three core business activities: early-stage venture investing with active board participation, financial consulting and advisory engagements focused on growth strategies, and capital-raising initiatives in partnership with ERG Securities. His expertise in optimizing capital structures, executing acquisitions, and succession planning has positioned Crescive Capital as a trusted partner for high-growth enterprises. Holding Series 79 and Series 63 securities licenses, he ensures efficient and compliant capital transactions for clients.
Prior to Crescive Capital, Lichtenberger spent 18 years at Cargill, where he held leadership roles in trade and capital markets. As Director of Cargill Trade & Capital Markets, he spearheaded long-term financing initiatives, sustainability-focused investments, and structured trade finance solutions. He played a pivotal role in closing $750 million in long-term transactions and managing an annual trade finance volume exceeding $400 million. Recognized for his innovative approach, he received the Cargill Chairman’s Award for Innovation in 2015 for pioneering financial structures in sustainable agriculture and the Unilever Visionary Award for Innovation and Sustainability in 2014.
Earlier in his career, Lichtenberger gained deep expertise in corporate finance, private equity, and investment banking. As a Principal at Goldner Hawn Johnson & Morrison, he managed late-stage private equity investments and served on multiple boards. At The Pritzker Organization, he played a key role in structuring investments, leading hotel development projects, and executing high-value debt financings. His tenure at Bear Stearns and Kidder Peabody further refined his M&A and capital markets expertise, where he facilitated billion-dollar transactions across industries.
Lichtenberger holds an MBA in Finance & Management Strategy from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and a BBA in Finance from the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business. His ability to navigate complex financial landscapes, identify strategic opportunities, and drive growth has cemented his reputation as a leader in global finance and investment.
Character
Joe Lichtenberger is a dedicated and results-driven financial leader who has built a career on integrity, innovation, and value creation. His commitment to ethical decision-making and long-term growth has established him as a trusted advisor in corporate finance, venture capital, and private equity.
Knowledge
With over 30 years of experience across structured trade finance, M&A, project finance, and strategic investments, Lichtenberger possesses deep expertise in navigating complex financial landscapes. His ability to develop innovative financial structures and optimize capital strategies has contributed to the success of numerous high-growth enterprises.
Strategic
Lichtenberger excels at identifying and executing strategic opportunities that drive business expansion, enhance financial performance, and create shareholder value. His leadership in capital raising, corporate restructuring, and international investments has positioned him as a key player in global finance.
Communication
As a seasoned executive and advisor, Lichtenberger effectively communicates complex financial strategies to stakeholders at all levels. His ability to communicate with commercial teams, treasury, operations, human resources and legal ensures transparency and clarity with all internal stakeholders. He drives strategic choices into actionable business decisions building consensus internally and earning him recognition as a trusted partner for corporate growth.
